TERI-NA's colloquium series titled 'Global partnerships for sustainable development: harnessing action for the 21st century' examines the nexus between globalization and sustainable development, in light of the understanding that the transition to sustainability is a complex, multi-layered phenomenon that requires interventions at the local and global levels. This book documents the proceedings at the third colloquium in the series, titled 'Looking beyond Johannesburg: scientific perspectives on strengthening partnerships in water and energy'.

The colloquium raised critical issues in nurturing effective and sustainable partnerships in the water and energy sectors and highlighted the role of the scientific community in strengthening these partnerships. The Millennium Development Goals and those set forth in Johannesburg can be accomplished by channelizing diverse efforts and resources. While Type 2 partnerships reflect a greater role for the non-government sector and the recognition of relative strengths of different actors, their success depends upon enabling frameworks. Does the political will to institutionalize and sustain them exist?

Undoubtedly, scientific and technological developments can expand and enhance the reach of energy and water services but there can be no technological quick fixes. The success of technological innovations depends on integrating them seamlessly with the social, cultural, and political contexts into which they are introduced.

The intensive deliberations by the representatives of governments, businesses, academia, and civil society manifest themselves in this valuable compilation of presentations, discussions, and broad conclusions. TERI